GARDAI today stepped up their search for a hit-and-run driver who killed father-of-four Paudie O’Leary as he trained for next weekend’s Ring of Kerry charity cycle.

Inspector Gerry Lacey, who is leading the investigation, said: “Someone must know the person driving the vehicle. Someone must know of a vehicle with unexplained damage.”

Speaking on Morning Ireland on RTE Radio, Insp Lacey said that is believed Paudie was struck on his bike nearer to 8am on Sunday morning as he cycled on the Gneeveguilla to Killarney road.

The body of the 42-year-old GAA player of Leamyglissane, Gneeveguilla Co Kerry died at Scrahan Fada about 12 miles from Killarney, but his body was not found for several hours.

When he did not return from the early morning training session, his family raised the alarm and a search began.

Insp Lacey said a detailed forensic examination had been undertaken at the scene and the vehicle involved was possibly dark grey in colour.

He said there was certainly substantial damage to the vehicle after the collision and asked people to come forward if they knew anything at all. He also appealed to people in the motor trade who may have been asked to repair a vehicle since Sunday morning.

Witnesses are asked to contact Kanturk Garda Station on 029 - 20680, The Garda Confidential Telephone Line 1800 666 111 or any Garda Station.